European Frogbit in Southwest Michigan

On June 1st the SWxSW Corner CISMA Team identified the first known population of European frogbit in Southwest Michigan. We found it at Crane Pond State Game Area in Cass County on Forked Lake.

European frogbit is a free floating aquatic invasive species. It has been spreading around the great lakes, especially to popular duck hunting areas. It spreads rapidly and shades out the water below it, making it harder for submerged plants to grow. Frogbit also tends to get blown by the wind into shrubs, cattails, or Phragmites, where it can avoid treatment or detection.

We are still working to determine a response plan for this new population, but if you have seen European frogbit, please report it to the SWxSW Corner CISMA at misin.msu.edu, InvasivesED@VanBurenCD.org, or 269-633-9044. Pictures are always appreciated to help us verify reports.

Alex Florian

CISMA Coordinator